McMaster University finds where people live affects ability to make healthy choices

McMaster University researchers found that there is generally lower access to fresh produce in rural grocery stores compared to urban. The study identifies elements that could affect residents' ability to practice a healthy lifestyle, in an effort to mitigate the risk of developing conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or certain cancers. Among its findings:

• Lower access to fresh produce is found in rural grocery stores compared to urban, with the former marked by less variety, seasonal availability and higher prices.
• There tends to be fewer healthy meal options in restaurants in rural communities than in city eateries.
• In-store advertising for sugar-sweetened drinks and junk food are more frequent in both rural and urban stores than for healthier food choices.
• Cigarette prices are lower, and the variety of brands is greater in urban outlets than in rural tobacco stores; alcohol prices are lowest in Quebec.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation said the study shows rural and remote communities continue to face inequities with respect to access to healthy food options. It says this underscores the need for policies to improve nutrition in these communities.